Catching an Uber or Lyft is a super convenient way to get from A to B if you don’t want to drive or catch public transport, but the rise in rideshares has also led to more accidents. If you are a passenger or driver involved in a rideshare accident, it is crucial that you take the proper steps to protect your rights and access compensation if needed. Here are some key things you should do after a rideshare accident.
Seek Medical Attention
The first priority after any accident is making sure all parties involved receive proper medical care. Even if you don’t think you suffered any injuries in the moment, the adrenaline from the crash can mask symptoms. Head to the emergency room or visit your doctor to get thoroughly evaluated after the accident. Make sure to describe all your symptoms, even ones that seem minor like headaches or back pain. Getting timely medical treatment can help your recovery and also strengthen your claim later. Save all records and bills related to treatment.
Report the Accident
You should report a rideshare accident to both the rideshare company and the police. Reporting it provides important documentation and starts a paper trail. For the rideshare company, follow their post-accident procedures. This usually involves contacting customer support right away and submitting an incident report. Uber and Lyft have 24/7 call centers to handle this. With the police, call 911 so officers can come to the scene or go to the nearest police station to file a report if it is a minor collision. Get a copy of the police report for your records.
Document Evidence from the Scene
Try to gather as much evidence and documentation as possible from the accident scene. Get contact details and insurance information from other drivers involved. Also, try to get the names and contact info of any witnesses who saw the accident occur. Their accounts could help prove fault later. All this evidence can significantly help your insurance claim or personal injury case.
Consult an Attorney
It is sensible to consult a rideshare accident lawyer Fort Worth TX from Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys after a rideshare accident, even a minor one. A Lyft accident lawyer can advocate for you and make sure your rights are protected. They can deal with rideshare companies and insurers on your behalf and make sure you receive full and fair compensation. Personal injury lawyers are experienced at getting accident victims payment to cover damages like medical bills, property damage, lost wages from missed work, pain and suffering, and other losses. We do not charge any fees upfront and only get paid if they win your case.
A Fort Worth rideshare accident attorney from Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys can deal with the insurance companies on your behalf. Cooperate with their investigation and submit any evidence you have gathered. Rideshare companies provide insurance that covers drivers and passengers during rides. Your Uber accident lawyer will advise you on the next steps for liability and repairs or medical bills.
File an Injury Claim if Needed
Your rideshare accident injury attorney can help you file an injury claim or lawsuit if it seems warranted. This legal process allows accident victims to pursue compensation if rideshare companies or drivers were negligent and insurance settlements are inadequate. Rideshare drivers must uphold a duty of care toward passengers that covers things like safe driving, proper vehicle maintenance, and reasonable assistance with entry and exit. Passengers can seek damages if they are injured due to a driver breaching this duty of care. For drivers injured by a negligent passenger or other motorist, injury claims are also an option if insurance payouts do not sufficiently cover losses.
Be Cautious of What You Say
Insurance adjusters will likely try to record statements from you about the accident, which is why it is important to only deal with them via your personal accident injury attorney from Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys. Avoid speculating about what happened or accepting blame. Stick to only the facts you know for certain. Say as little as possible until you have legal guidance. Your rideshare company may also reach out to get your version of events. Politely decline to provide an official statement until you consult with an attorney. What you say after an accident can affect your rights. Wait until you have legal advice before sharing any substantive account. Do nothing without your lawyer’s guidance.
Follow Up on Treatment
Make sure to follow all medical professional’s orders for tests, treatment procedures, medications, etc. Adhering to treatment plans can promote your recovery. It also shows insurers and courts you are trying to mitigate your damages. Missing appointments or treatments can hurt your injury claim. Save all paperwork and records related to medical care. Fully participate in all treatment and evaluation your doctor recommends. But do not accept any settlement offers until treatment concludes and you know the full extent of your damages.
Focus on Healing
The aftermath of an accident is always hectic. Try to focus your energy on healing physically and emotionally. Get plenty of rest, eat healthy foods, stick to routines as much as possible, and lean on your support system. Avoid social media or news coverage about the crash. Don’t rush back to work before you are ready. Managing stress and prioritizing self-care can aid the recovery process. Consult mental health professionals if you have any trauma or anxiety related to the accident. Take things one step at a time in the days after a crash.
Rideshare accidents can have financial, physical, and emotional impacts on victims. Following these steps will help protect your rights and access fair compensation. Alert the authorities, gather evidence, get medical care, consult an attorney from Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys, and work on your recovery. With the right help and by making smart decisions, you can navigate the claims process and achieve the best possible outcome after a rideshare crash.
Call us today if you’ve suffered an injury in a rideshare accident. Reach us at 800-4THE-WIN (800-484-3946) for a free consultation.
